In Pixar's Cars 3, Cruz Ramirez defeats Jackson Storm at the Florida 500.
The Florida 500 is the climactic race of Cars 3. Lightning McQueen initially returns to competition after training with Cruz, but he realizes that Cruz deserves the opportunity to race. He becomes her crew chief, and Cruz takes his place in the event while using lessons learned during their journey.
Cruz's victory over Jackson Storm gives the story a generational resolution. Lightning does not defeat Storm through greater speed; instead, he helps Cruz use her own skill and confidence. The result allows Lightning to continue in racing in a new role while Cruz begins her career as a major competitor.
The Florida 500 is fictional and should not be confused with the real Daytona 500, a major NASCAR event held in Florida. Cars 3 uses the name as part of its invented Piston Cup racing world. The race is held at the same fictional Florida International Super Speedway featured in the film's finale.